Politicians Must Choose Between Service and Selfishness - Dr. Ogah Speaks Out

Abuja, Nigeria - Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian politicians, cautioning them against reckless political behavior that he says is dangerously undermining the nation's stability and unity.

In a statement made available to journalists, Dr. Ogah stressed that leadership is a sacred call to service, not a platform for self-enrichment or reckless ambition. He condemned the rising trend of money politics and divisive rhetoric, describing them as threats capable of tearing the country apart.

According to him, the increasing monetization of elections - from vote-buying to influencing delegates - has reduced democracy to a cash-and-carry affair, stripping citizens of their right to choose credible leaders.

"When politics becomes excessively commercialized, the ordinary citizens are robbed of their right to choose credible leaders,ÔÇØ Dr. Ogah warned.

The former minister also expressed deep concern about the growing manipulation of Nigerian youths by desperate politicians. He noted that young people are the future of the country and should not be used as tools for violence or thuggery. Instead, he urged leaders to channel their energy into mentoring and empowering the next generation.

Dr. Ogah further condemned the use of hate speech, fake news, and propaganda during campaigns, describing them as weapons of division and instability. He called on politicians to adopt issue-based campaigns, constructive criticism, and tolerance to strengthen Nigeria's democratic culture.

On national security, the former minister insisted that insecurity must never be politicized or turned into a campaign slogan. He maintained that leaders at all levels should collaborate to ensure peace, stability, and safety of lives and property across the federation.

"Leadership is about service to the people. Our focus should be on development, inclusive governance, and policies that will uplift both urban and rural communities, not on short-term selfish political gains,ÔÇØ Dr. Ogah concluded.

His caution comes at a time when Nigerians continue to grapple with insecurity, unemployment, economic hardship, and loss of trust in political leaders - issues many analysts say are worsened by irresponsible politics and the hunger for power at all costs.